Asthma is a chronic disease that affects the airways that carry air to and from the lungs. The inside walls of the airways become swollen of the asthmatic patients. Thus, airways become sensitive and may strongly react to dust and allergens. Patients suffering from asthma may experience symptoms like wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and shortness of breath. Asthma is diagnosed based on lung function test, patient’s medical history, a physical exam and allergy tests. Usually there are two types of medication, one is quick relief medication to stop symptoms of asthma and the other is long term medicines that prevent symptoms.
Primary Causes of Asthma:
A number of causes are held responsible for triggering the symptoms of Asthma. Family history of asthma is known to be the major reason behind the asthma outbreak. Symptoms of asthma are inherited, if patient has family history of asthma or other related allergies. You may also develop symptoms of the disease if you are allergic to pollen, dust mites, animal fur or feathers. Painkillers like aspirin and ibuprofen also instigate asthma symptoms. The following are the primary causes of asthma:
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Airway and chest infections
- Foods containing sulphites
- Weather conditions
- Some Indoor conditions
- Airborne irritants
Early Signs and Symptoms of Asthma:
The early signs and symptoms of asthma include:
- Frequent cough
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing or wheezing attacks
- Feeling tired after workout
- Sudden decreases or changes in lung functions.
If you experience any of the above stated signs and symptoms, call upon your doctor immediately.
Diagnosis and Medication:
Doctors conduct several physical tests to determine the diagnosis of asthma. Based on those results, they analyze the severity of the asthmatic condition. During the treatment, a doctor may focus on the treatment of airway swelling to reduce the asthma attack. A breathing test is done to determine the intensity of swelling in the airways. Allergy test, blood test and a chest X-ray is also done to diagnose the disease. Lifestyle changes and some effective medication may be recommended by the physician as part of the treatment. Singulair, Advair and Flovent are the most recommended medication for the treatment of asthma.